Vaccination status and self-reported side effects after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in relation to psychological and clinical variables in patients with multiple sclerosis.

The recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and the vaccination campaign posed a challenge to patients with autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis (MS). We aimed for investigating whether psychological/sociodemographic/clinical characteristics of MS patients are associated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination status and self-reported vaccination side effects (SEs). We have asked patients with MS about their willingness to receive recommended standard vaccinations pre-pandemically since June 2019. Between 10/2021 and 01/2022, we surveyed 193 of these MS patients about their current SARS-CoV-2 vaccination status, their perception of vaccination-related SEs, and reasons for and against SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. 75.6% of the patients declared their willingness to receive standard vaccinations before the pandemic. 84.5%, 78.2%, and 13.0% of the patients had received the first, second, and third SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, respectively, until the follow-up survey. The most common reason for not getting vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 was concern about possible side effects (82.1%), followed by the belief that the vaccines had not been adequately tested (64.3%). Vaccination-related SEs were reported by 52.8% of the patients. Younger age, higher education, lower degree of disability, relapsing disease course, shorter disease duration, not receiving a disease-modifying therapy and higher anxiety and depression levels were associated with the occurrence of certain vaccination-related SEs. Concerns about novel vaccines are widespread among MS patients and necessitate targeted education of the patients, especially to those with more severe psychopathological symptoms (anxiety or depression) and those who are generally skeptical of vaccination.

Short-term results of tibial interference screw fixation for transtibial medial meniscus posterior root pull-out repair.

Background: To evaluate the technique of transtibial pull-out repair with tibial interference screw fixation for medial meniscus posterior root (MMPR) tear by reporting on short-term outcomes and complications. Methods: All MMPR repairs performed between January 2019 and August 2021 (n = 70) were retrospectively screened regarding demographic data and surgical parameters. The patients were questioned for performed revision surgery, symptoms and complications. The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain, Lysholm Knee Score and International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Form (IKDC) questionnaires were used to evaluate clinical outcome. In cases of revision surgery for re-tear the mode of failure was intraoperatively classified (patients with re-tear were excluded from the clinical follow-up examination). The influence of demographic and treatment parameters (surgical and rehabilitation) on the incidence and mode of re-tear and clinical scores was evaluated. Results: After 2.3 ± 0.7 years, 62 patients (88.6 %) were available for follow-up. There were no direct intra- or postoperative complications. No revision was performed due to symptoms related to the tibial fixation material. The mean surgery time was 33.5 ± 10.8 min. The overall re-tear rate was 17.7 % (11 patients) of whom 10 were treated surgically and one conservatively. Primary mode of failure was suture cut-out from the meniscus (70 %). The NRS, Lysholm Knee Score and subjective IKDC were obtained in 38 patients and improved from 6.8 ± 2.4, 40.1 ± 23.9 and 32.8 ± 16.3 to 2.2 ± 2.2, 80.5 ± 16.3 and 63.0 ± 13.9, respectively (all p < 0.001). No influence was observed from demographic and treatment parameters on re-tear rates or clinical Scores. Conclusions: Tibial interference screw fixation is a fast and promising technique for MMPR transtibial pull-out repair. In the presented technique, utilizing non-absorbable locking sutures alongside tibial interfenrence screw fixation, the primary mode of failure was suture cut-out from the meniscus.

Depression and Anxiety in Association with Polypharmacy in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis.

Polypharmacy (intake of ≥5 drugs) is an important issue for patients with chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). We aimed to assess the prevalence of polypharmacy with regard to the severity of anxiety/depression and to comorbidities. Therefore, 374 MS patients from two German neurological sites were examined for drug burden, comorbidities, disability level and psychopathological measures capturing depression and anxiety using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A and HADS-D). We found that patients with a higher HADS-D score take more medication (r = 0.217, p < 0.001). Furthermore, patients with higher depression severity were more likely to show polypharmacy (p < 0.001). These differences were not significant for anxiety. (p = 0.413). Regarding the frequency of ≥1 comorbidities, there were no significant differences between patients with different HADS-A (p = 0.375) or HADS-D (p = 0.860) severity levels, whereas the concrete number of comorbidities showed a significant positive linear correlation with HADS-A (r = 0.10, p = 0.045) and HADS-D scores (r = 0.19, p < 0.001). In conclusion, symptoms of depression pose a relevant issue for MS patients and are correlated with polypharmacy and comorbidities. Anxiety is not correlated with polypharmacy but with the frequency of several comorbidity groups in MS patients.

Effect of Anterior Tibial Closing Wedge Osteotomy on Coronal Tibial Alignment in Relation to Preoperative Medial Proximal Tibial Angle and Wedge Height.

BACKGROUND: The posterior tibial slope has been identified as an anatomic risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament insufficiency and reruptures after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Anterior tibial closing wedge osteotomy for correction of sagittal plane deformities has the potential to cause an unintended change in coronal plane alignment. PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of anterior tibial closing wedge osteotomies for correction of posterior tibial slope on coronal plane alignment using an infratuberosity surgical approach and to identify predictive factors for a change in medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA). STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: This study reports on retrospectively obtained data from radiographic measurements of 38 anterior tibial closing wedge osteotomies. All patients underwent revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and had undergone ≥1 previous anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. In all patients, an infratuberosity approach was used with angular stable plate fixation. Pre- and postoperative radiographs were examined retrospectively to detect changes in the sagittal and coronal plane alignment (posterior tibial slope and MPTA). A multivariate regression analysis was used to identify predictors for a change in MPTA. RESULTS: The study group consisted of 14 women and 24 men whose mean ± SD age at the index procedure was 31.6 ± 8.7 years (range, 17-51 years). Posterior tibial slope decreased significantly (by 7.2° ± 2.3°; P < .001) from 14.6° ± 2.0° preoperatively to 7.4° ± 2.1° postoperatively. MPTA decreased significantly by 1.3° ± 1.5° (P = .005) from pre- to postoperative measurement. Mean wedge height was 9.3 ± 1.1 mm. A lower preoperative MPTA (coefficient = 0.32; P = .017; 95% CI, 0.06-0.59) and larger wedge height (coefficient = 0.48; P = .029; 95% CI, 0.05-0.9) were significant predictive factors for a decrease in MPTA. CONCLUSION: Anterior tibial closing wedge osteotomy for posterior tibial slope reduction resulted in a slight but significant decrease of the MPTA in the coronal plane. These changes were dependent on the preoperative MPTA and the wedge height.

High prevalence of increased posterior tibial slope in ACL revision surgery demands a patient-specific approach.

PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence of an "increased posterior tibial slope (PTS)" (PTS ≥ 12°) in a population with one, two or ≥ three anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft insufficiencies. Furthermore, to investigate whether the prevalence of an increased PTS and the absolute PTS increases with an increasing number of ACL graft insufficiencies, as well as to determine the survival time of the first ACL graft. METHODS: Patients diagnosed with an ACL graft insufficiency between January 2021 and March 2022 were included. The PTS was measured using the proximal anatomical tibial axis on long lateral knee radiographs. Patients were divided into 3 groups depending on the number of ACL graft insufficiencies: group A (1 graft insufficiency), group B (2 graft insufficiencies) and group C (≥ 3 graft insufficiencies). The prevalence of increased PTS and absolute PTS between groups was compared alongside the survival of the first ACL graft between patients with or without increased PTS. RESULTS: Two-hundred and six patients (147 males/59 females) met the inclusion criteria. 73 patients showed an increased PTS [prevalence 35% [95% confidence interval (CI) (29%; 42%)]. 155 patients were found in category A, 42 patients in B and 9 patients in C. The prevalence of increased PTS for group A, B and C was, 32% [95% CI (25%; 40%)], 38% [95% CI (23%; 53%)] and 78% [95% CI (51%; 100%)], respectively. The prevalence of increased PTS and mean PTS did not increase significantly between group A and B. However, both parameters increased significantly between group A and C, and group B and C (p < 0.05). The survival time of the first ACL graft in patients with or without an increased PTS was 3 (interquartile range (IQR) 5) and 6 years (IQR 9), respectively (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: There is a 35% prevalence of increased PTS in the studied ACL graft insufficient patient cohort. The survival of the first ACL graft is shorter in patients with an increased PTS. Surgeons should be aware of the high prevalence of increased PTS when consulting patients for revision ACL reconstruction as it is an important risk factor for recurrent instability.

Double level osteotomy for medial osteoarthritis and bifocal varus malalignment has excellent short-term results while maintaining physiologic radiographic joint parameters.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the clinical and radiological results of double level osteotomy (distal femoral lateral closed wedge and proximal tibial medial open wedge) in medial osteoarthritis and varus malalignment due to bifocal deformity of femur and tibia. METHODS: From 2017 to 2019 all cases of DLO in osteoarthritic varus malaligned knees with bifocal deformity (femoral and tibial deformity) were prospectively enrolled into this observational therapeutic study. Evaluation was performed preoperatively, at six, twelve, 18 and 24 months with regard to survival (not requiring arthroplasty), functional outcome [subjective International Knee Documentation Committee score (IKDC), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome score (KOOS) and Tegner Activity Scale], pain level (numeric rating scale), subjective satisfaction (rating 1-5), radiographic parameters on a pre-and postoperative full leg x-rays (mechanical axis, mechanical proximal tibial and distal femoral angles) and complications. For statistical evaluation student's t test, Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon-signed-rank test were used. RESULTS: Fifty-two consecutive cases in 48 patients were enrolled in the study. Three cases were excluded, resulting in a follow-up rate of 94%. No arthroplasties were performed within follow-up. All functional outcome scores substantially and significantly increased as early as six months after the index procedure and further increased until final follow-up (p < 0.001). Pain level significantly decreased (p < 0.001). At final follow-up all patients stated that they would retrospectively undergo the operation again, and rated the result with 4.5 ± 0.6 out of 5 (3-5). Radiographic parameters were within physiological limits postoperatively. No severe complications occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Double level osteotomy has excellent short-term results while maintaining physiological radiographic parameters. Therefore, it should be an integral part and standard procedure in realignment surgery for monocompartimental osteoarthritis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV (prospective observational therapeutic study).

Vaccination willingness in association with personality traits in patients with multiple sclerosis in the course of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Vaccination is a key strategy for controlling the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Acceptance of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines by chronically ill patients, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, plays an important role in prevention of complicated disease course. This longitudinal, prospective, multi-centre-study of German MS-patients aimed to detect socio-demographic, clinical, or psychological determinants of attitudes towards standard vaccines, SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, and governmental measures before/during the pandemic. Exactly 404 MS-patients were investigated by standardized questionnaires and structured interviews on socio-demographic, clinical-neurological, and psychological characteristics, vaccination status, and vaccination from June 2019. Data on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination willingness were collected in two follow-up assessments (1st: June to July 2020, before SARS-CoV-2 vaccine availability, N = 200; 2nd: March to May 2021, after SARS-CoV-2 vaccine availability, N = 157). Age, sex, MS course type, depression, and personality characteristics (Extraversion, Novelty seeking, Self-directedness, and Cooperativeness) were significantly associated with vaccination willingness. Although the majority of MS-patients showed SARS-CoV-2 vaccination willingness at both follow-ups (1st: 60%, 2nd: 61%), a substantial proportion had concerns and were undecided or opposed to vaccination. Socio-demographic variables like age and sex, psychopathological status, and various personality characteristics might influence vaccination willingness and should be considered when discussing with MS-patients about SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

General vaccination willingness and current vaccination status in relation to clinical and psychological variables in patients with multiple sclerosis.

BACKGROUND: Infections can have a significant impact on morbidity and mortality in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Therefore, vaccinations are of immense importance. If vaccination willingness is to be increased, possible influencing factors should be identified. The aim of the present study was to investigate the status of active immunisation in MS patients in association with sociodemographic, clinical-neurological, psychopathological and personality variables using the NEO-Five Factor Inventory, the Temperament and Character Inventory-Revised and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. METHOD: Four hundred and four MS patients from two German neurological hospitals were examined for their vaccination attitudes, in detail, the general willingness to vaccinate and the current vaccination status of mumps, measles and rubella (MMR) as well as tetanus and influenza. We also looked at the current level of disability in relation to the current vaccination status, as well as possible associated personality and psychopathological variables. RESULTS: Patients with a complete MMR vaccination status were significantly younger and those with a complete influenza vaccination status were significantly older than those with related incomplete vaccination status. Tetanus vaccination status completeness did not differ depending on age and did not show substantial association with personality scores. However, influenza vaccination completeness was associated with differences in personality and psychopathological variables; extraversion, openness, novelty seeking, harm avoidance and anxiety. A reported general vaccination willingness was significantly correlated with the current completeness of tetanus and influenza vaccinations. Novelty seeking, persistence, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness and neuroticism were found associated with an increased vaccination willingness. Anxiety and depression were not related to general vaccination willingness. CONCLUSIONS: No specific personality trait could be defined on its own in relation to general vaccination willingness or complete vaccination status. Younger patients should be made more aware of influenza vaccination. Reasons for rather low vaccination rates need to be further investigated.

Vaccination Setting of Patients with Autoimmune Diseases in Times of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Type 2 Pandemic Using the Example of Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Longitudinal Multicenter Study.

BACKGROUND: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection represents a serious health risk, especially in chronically ill people. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic immune-mediated neurological disease. Vaccinations play an important role in the therapeutic MS management. This study aimed at determining MS patients' attitudes toward vaccinations and governmental measures before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, including associations with sociodemographic and clinical variables. METHODS: In a longitudinal, multicenter study, 200 MS patients were investigated regarding their vaccination attitudes before and after the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Data on vaccination status and burden (physical, psychological, and social) experienced as caused by the pandemic and related governmental safety measures were registered. RESULTS: Patients with progressive MS felt significantly more pandemic-burdened than patients with relapsing-onset MS (p < 0.001). Older patients were more frequently willing to get vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 than younger patients (p < 0.001). After the first pandemic wave, patients with pre-pandemic willingness to comply with vaccination recommendations were more likely to accept recommended standard vaccinations (60% vs. 36%) and a possible SARS-CoV-2 vaccination than pre-pandemic nonwilling patients (66.7% vs. 42.0%). CONCLUSIONS: The vaccination topic was not immediately present in many patients before the pandemic. MS patients need comprehensive and understandable education meeting their concerns using evidence-based and convincing arguments on the subject of vaccination, particularly younger patients. Older patients are already more often willing to become vaccinated. Complete vaccination status is necessary to avoid multiple infections.

Midterm Results After Isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction as First-Line Surgical Treatment in Skeletally Immature Patients Irrespective of Patellar Height and Trochlear Dysplasia.

BACKGROUND: Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction in skeletally immature patients who experience lateral patellar dislocation has been reported to yield good results. Whether bony abnormalities such as patellar height and trochlear dysplasia should be addressed additionally is a topic of discussion. PURPOSE: To evaluate patient-reported outcomes and redislocation rates after isolated medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction as first-line surgical treatment for lateral patellar dislocation in skeletally immature patients. Further, to analyze epidemiological, intraoperative, and radiographical factors influencing redislocation and clinical outcome. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Prospectively collected data were retrospectively analyzed for adolescent patients younger than 16 years who underwent medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction between 2014 and 2018. Inclusion criteria were isolated medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with gracilis tendon and availability of accurate pre- and postoperative radiographs with the presence of open physes. The patients were questioned regarding further surgery, redislocation, and clinical outcomes using the Tegner Activity Scale, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Form, Lysholm score, and Kujala score. The influence of diverse epidemiological, intraoperative, and radiographical parameters on the redislocation rates and clinical outcome was analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 54 medial patellofemoral ligament reconstructions (49 patients) met the inclusion criteria. After 4.3 ± 1.7 years (range, 2.0-7.3 years), 45 reconstructions (83.3%) in 41 patients were available for follow-up. The distribution of trochlear dysplasia was as follows: type A and B, 19 cases (42.2%) each; type C, 6 cases (13.3%); and type D, 1 case (2.2%). Patellar redislocation occurred in 3 patients (6.7%). The mean Tegner, subjective IKDC, Lysholm, and Kujala scores at follow-up were 6.3 ± 1.6 (range, 3-9), 93.6 ± 8.8, 95.9 ± 7.4, and 97.9 ± 7.1, respectively. Patellar height and trochlear dysplasia had no influence on redislocation or clinical scores. The Lysholm score was lower in knees with intraoperative retropatellar chondral lesion grade ≥III versus grade

[Technique of all arthroscopic autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) for the treatment of cartilage defects in the knee]. / Technik der vollarthroskopischen autologen Chondrozytentransplantation zur Behandlung von Knorpeldefekten des Kniegelenks.

OBJECTIVE: All arthroscopic treatment of deep cartilage defects in the knee for reconstruction of the articular surface. INDICATIONS: Focal cartilage defects of the knee (ICRS ≥ grade 3) from a size of 2.5 cm2 and more. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence > grade 2), osseus defect situation, cartilage lesion of the opposing articular surfaces (ICRS > grade 2), instability, malalignment (>3-4°), inflammatory joint diseases. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: First procedure (cell harvesting): Treatment of additional pathologies, preparation of the cartilage defect, harvesting of osteochondral cylinders for cell culture. Second procedure (cell implantation): Dry arthroscopy, cleaning and drying of the already prepared defect, implantation of the in situ crosslinking cartilage cell suspension. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: First procedure (cell harvesting): Early functional treatment with weight bearing as tolerated. Second procedure (cell implantation): No drains, extension brace for 4 days, then free range of motion, partial weight bearing for 4 weeks in patellofemoral implantation and for 8 weeks in tibiofemoral implantation, continuous passive motion beginning in postoperative week 2, cycling from postoperative week 9. RESULTS: In the literature, results for ACI in the knee are reported to be good, especially for larger cartilage defects. Arthroscopic techniques should lead to a decrease of complications and perioperative morbidity. No technique-specific complications occurred in our cohort. From 2012-2015, 98 patients were treated using the above mentioned technique, whereby 62 patients were retrospectively evaluated after 31.0 ± 14.8 (12.5-61.4) months. In 15 patients (28%) additional procedures were performed (7 anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions, 3 correction osteotomies and 5 medial patellofemoral ligament reconstructions). Average cartilage defect size was 4.7 ± 2.8 cm2, in 18 patients (29%) more than one cartilage defect was treated. The subjective IKDC and total KOOS scores resulted in 66 ± 10 and 73 ± 19 points.

Posterior cruciate ligament lesions are mainly present as combined lesions even in sports injuries.

PURPOSE: To analyse 1000 consecutive patients, treated with isolated or combined posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction in a single centre according to the epidemiological factors and differences in injury patterns depending on the activity during trauma. METHODS: Between 2004 and 2019, one thousand isolated and combined PCL reconstructions were performed. The medical charts and surgical reports of all patients were analysed regarding epidemiological factors. The PCL lesions were divided into isolated and combined lesions with at least one additional ligamentous injury. The influence of activity during accident and additional injury on the presence of isolated or combined lesions and injury patterns was calculated. RESULTS: In 388 patients (38.8%), sporting activity was the main activity in PCL lesions, followed by traffic accidents in 350 patients (35.0%). Combined injuries were present in 227 patients (58.5%) with sports injuries and 251 patients (71.7%) with traffic accidents. Only during handball, an isolated PCL lesion (69.1%) was more common than a combined lesion. Highest rate of combined lesions was present in car accidents (91.7%). In all activities except skiing and biking, the most common additional peripheral injury was a tear of the posterolateral corner. In skiing and biking accidents, the most common additional peripheral lesion was a lesion of the medial collateral ligament. In patients with PCL lesion and additional fracture of the same lower extremity, a combined lesion was more common than an isolated lesion (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Combined PCL lesions are more common than isolated lesions, even in sports injuries (except handball). Incidence and injury pattern vary depending on activity during trauma. Main additional peripheral lesion is a lesion of the posterolateral corner, except biking and skiing accidents where a medial lesion is more common. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Soaking of the graft in vancomycin dramatically reduces the incidence of postoperative septic arthritis after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To determine and compare the incidence of postoperative septic arthritis following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with and without soaking of the graft in vancomycin solution prior to implantation in a large single-centre case series. METHODS: From 2004 to 2019, a total of 10,516 primary ACLR were performed and reviewed with regard to the occurrence of postoperative septic arthritis. From February 2017 onwards, all grafts were wrapped in a vancomycin-soaked (5 mg/ml) gauze swab between harvest and implantation (2294 patients, treatment group (2), prospectively followed). These were compared to 8222 patients before that date (control group (1), retrospectively evaluated). The technique of ACLR did not significantly change during the years of the study. There was no difference between the groups with regard to graft choice: Hamstring tendons were used in 99% and quadriceps tendons were used in 1% in both groups, respectively (n.s.). Routine follow-up examination was performed at 6 weeks (follow-up rate 97.1%) postoperatively. Patients with no treatment for septic arthritis at that time were classified as non-infected. RESULTS: There were 35 cases of postoperative septic arthritis in group 1 (incidence: 0.4%), and none in group 2 (incidence 0.0%), respectively. The difference was significant (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Soaking of the graft in vancomycin solution prior to implantation dramatically reduces the incidence of postoperative septic arthritis in primary ACLR and should, therefore, be used in prevention of this major complication. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Lower incidence of post-operative septic arthritis following revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with quadriceps tendon compared to hamstring tendons.

PURPOSE: To determine and compare the incidence of post-operative septic arthritis following revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (R-ACLR) with autologous quadriceps tendon (with patellar bone block) compared to autologous hamstring tendons (semitendinosus and gracilis). METHODS: A total of 1638 isolated R-ACLR with either autologous hamstring tendons (n = 1004, 61.3%) or quadriceps tendon (n = 634; 38.7%) were performed between 2004 and 2017 and were retrospectively analysed with regard to the occurrence of post-operative septic arthritis. The technique of R-ACLR did not significantly change during the years of the study. All patients received pre-op i.v.antibiotics, but no presoaking of the grafts in vancomycin was performed in the years of the study. The individual decision of graft choice was based on graft availability, tunnel position and the presence of tunnel widening. Generally, hamstring tendons were preferred. There were no clinically relevant differences between the groups regarding gender or age. Routine follow-up examination was performed 6 weeks after the index operation (follow-up rate 96.5%), and patients unsuspicious for septic arthritis at that time were classified as non-infected. RESULTS: Fourteen patients with septic arthritis were identified, resulting in an overall incidence of 0.85%. There was one patient with septic arthritis in the quadriceps tendon group (incidence: 0.16%) and 13 patients in the hamstring tendons group (incidence: 1.29%), respectively. The difference was significant (p = 0.013). CONCLUSION: In this series, the incidence of post-operative septic arthritis after R-ACLR was lower when quadriceps tendon graft was used compared to hamstring tendon grafts. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Midterm Results after Implant-Free Patellar Fixation Technique for Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction.

Problems and complications concerning the patellar fixation in medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) have been reported. The purpose of this retrospective study was to systematically analyze the surgical technique for MPFLR with a V: -shaped patellar bonetunnel for implant-free fixation of an autologous gracilis tendon, allowing early functional rehabilitation, regarding restoration of the patellofemoral stability, patient satisfaction, return to sports, and technique-specific complications. In 2010, 128 cases of consecutive isolated MPFLR were performed. All these cases were included. After a minimum follow-up of 3 years, 104 cases were retrospectively analyzed (follow-up: 81.3%) with regard to redislocation, subjective functional outcome (Tegner's score and sports level compared with preoperative level), patient satisfaction, revision surgery, and technique-specific complications. After a follow-up of 45.7 ± 3.2 months, 101 of 104 cases (97.1%) showed no redislocation. Mean Tegner's score was 5.1 ± 1.8 (range, 2-9). A total of 61.5% patients reported about a higher sports level compared with their preoperative level. The patient satisfaction was high with 94.2%. In two cases (1.9%), technique-specific problems occurred as the bone bridge of the V: -shaped tunnel was insufficient due to a malpositioning of the aiming device. No further technique-specific problems occurred and no revision surgery was necessary during the observational period. The presented surgical technique is safe and it reliably restores the patellofemoral stability, with a low rate of redislocations, an excellent subjective functional outcome, and a high-patient-reported satisfaction. No major technique-specific complications occurred.

Excellent long-term results in combined high tibial osteotomy, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and chondral resurfacing in patients with severe osteoarthritis and varus alignment.

PURPOSE: To determine survivorship and functional results of medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO) combined with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and a chondral resurfacing (CR) procedure (abrasion/microfracture) in patients with Kellgren-Lawrence grade 3 and 4 osteoarthritis with full thickness-cartilage defects, ACL-insufficiency and varus alignment. METHODS: A cohort of 23 patients undergoing a combined procedure of HTO (fixation with angular stable internal fixator, Tomofix®), ACLR and CR for the treatment of severe symptomatic medial osteoarthritis, ACL insufficiency and varus alignment (> 4°) between 2005 and 2009 was prospectively surveyed with a minimum follow-up of 10 years with regard to survival (not requiring arthroplasty), functional outcome (subjective IKDC score), pain level (numeric rating scale), Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and subjective satisfaction. The Wilcoxon signed-rank-test was used for statistical evaluation of non-parametric data in these related samples. RESULTS: Twenty-one cases were included, one case with incomplete follow-up data and another case excluded. The follow-up rate was 91% at 12.0 ± 1.0 years (10.0-13.4). Mean age at time of surgery was 47.3 ± 5.9 years (37.8-57.7). At final follow-up, no arthroplasty was performed in any of the cases (survival: 100%). Subjective IKDC score improved from 47 ± 11 to 75 ± 15 at 1, 72 ± 15 at 3, 73 ± 17 at 6 years and 70 ± 16 at final follow-up (p < 0.001), respectively. At final follow-up the OKS was 40 ± 7 (17-48) and pain-level significantly decreased from 7.5 ± 1.0 preoperatively to 2.9 ± 2.3 (p < 0.001) at final follow-up. All patients were satisfied with the result and stated that they would retrospectively undergo the procedure again. CONCLUSION: A combined approach of HTO, ACLR and a CR shows excellent results in a long-term follow-up in selected young patients even in severe osteoarthritis. However, the role and potential benefit of the ACLR and CR compared to HTO alone remains unclear. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic case series, Level IV.

Soaking of autografts in vancomycin is highly effective in preventing postoperative septic arthritis after revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: To determine and compare the incidence of postoperative septic arthritis following revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (R-ACLR) with and without soaking of the graft in vancomycin solution prior to implantation in a large single-centre series. METHODS: A total of 2155 isolated R-ACLR with autologous tendons were performed from 2004 to 2019 and were reviewed with regard to the occurrence of postoperative septic arthritis. From February 2017 onwards, all grafts were wrapped in a vancomycin-soaked (5 mg/ml) gauze swab between harvest and implantation (517 patients, treatment group (2), prospectively followed). These were compared to 1638 patients before that date (control group (1), retrospectively evaluated). The technique of R-ACLR did not significantly change during the years of the study. Hamstring tendons were used in 1310 patients (60.8%) and quadriceps tendons with patellar bone block were used in 845 patients (39.2%), respectively, with no difference between the groups (n.s.). Routine follow-up examination was performed 6 weeks postoperatively (follow-up rate 96.5%), and patients with no treatment for septic arthritis until that time were classified as non-infected. RESULTS: There were 14 cases of postoperative septic arthritis in group 1 (incidence 0.9%), and none in group 2 (incidence 0.0%), respectively. The difference was significant (p = 0.029). CONCLUSION: Soaking of the graft in vancomycin solution prior to implantation dramatically reduces the incidence of postoperative septic arthritis in R-ACLR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.

Arthroscopic autologous chondrocyte implantation in the knee with an in situ crosslinking matrix: minimum 4-year clinical results of 15 cases and 1 histological evaluation.

PURPOSE: To clinically evaluate an arthroscopic autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) technique with an in situ crosslinking matrix for the treatment of full thickness cartilage defects of the knee and to present histological results of a graft cartilage biopsy obtained after 1.5 years. METHODS: Fifteen cases of arthroscopic autologous chondrocyte implantation in the knee performed between November 2011 and October 2012 were included in the study. Medical charts and operational reports were screened and the patients were contacted after 0.8 ± 0.3 years (0.4-1.3) and 4.3 ± 0.3 years (4.0-4.8) to asses subjective IKDC and re-operation. The Tegner activity scale was collected at the second follow-up time point. Subjective IKDC response rates were assessed at both follow-up time points. RESULTS: The first and second follow-up was completed by all 15 patients (100%). The subjective IKDC scores showed a significant improvement (pre-operative 44.5 ± 15.9, first follow-up 71.1 ± 15.9, p < 0.001, second follow-up 72.6 ± 17.3, p < 0.001). The overall response rate was 66.7% (n = 10) at follow-up one and two. There were no significant differences in pre-injury (4, range 1-9) and follow-up two (4, range 2-7) Tegner activity scales (p = n.s.). Two patients required re-operation in the index knee, not related to the ACI procedure. No complication related to the ACI or the implantation technique occurred. The histological results showed excellent cartilage regeneration. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic ACI using an in situ crosslinking matrix is a safe and reliable treatment option for full-thickness cartilage defects of the knee.

The influence of tibial slope on the graft in combined high tibial osteotomy and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Young patients with severe medial osteoarthritis, varus malalignment and insufficiency of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are difficult to treat. The tibial slope has gained attention with regard to osteotomies and ligamentous instability. The purpose was to evaluate the outcome of combined high tibial osteotomy (HTO), ACL reconstruction and chondral resurfacing (CR, abrasion plus microfracture), and to analyse graft failure rates with regard to the tibial slope. METHODS: Fifty cases (48.9 ±â€¯5.4 years) of combined HTO, ACLR and CR were retrospectively analysed with regard to survival, functional outcome (subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) examination form) and subjective satisfaction. The tibial slope was determined on lateral radiographs and analysed with regard to its influence on graft functionality at the time of hardware removal. RESULTS: Follow-up rate was 100% after 5.6 ±â€¯1.6 years. No arthroplasties were performed. Subjective IKDC score was 70 ±â€¯18, and 94% were satisfied with the result. The graft was intact in 39 cases (78%), and non-functional in 11 cases (22%). No significant changes were present in pre- and postoperative tibial slope (P = 0.811). Graft insufficiency was strongly dependent on tibial slope, with a failure rate of seven percent in cases of postoperative tibial slope <7.5°, 24% in cases of 7.5-12.5°, and 36% in cases of >12.5°. CONCLUSION: Combined HTO, ACLR and CR is an effective treatment in these cases. The graft failure rate increases with an increase in tibial slope, in particular when exceeding 12.5°. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series, Level 4.